Using the Stanislavsky System: A Practical Guide to Character Creation and Period Styles

by Robert Blumenfeld

(Limelight). This book is a must for all professional and student actors, and for acting teachers as well. A concise, clear explanation of exactly how to create a character in plays of any period, using the Stanislavsky system. Known for his detailed approach to the art of acting and for the authenticity of his historical productions, Stanislavsky believed that actors should immerse themselves completely in the era in which a play or film is set. The chapters provide inspiring cultural, social, and historical introductions to the periods from ancient Greece through the end of World War Two. Each chapter covers the way men and women moved, stood, and sat in the clothing they wore; the use of accessories such as fans, swords, snuffboxes, gloves, and hats; greetings, bows, and curtsies; table manners; and the etiquette, civility, and automatic habits of thinking and of social intercourse depending on social class. All these things that people took for granted as the background of their lives, as part of their conscious and unconscious mental world, are the essential components of building a character with real, organic behavior associated with a specific era. Literature, music, painting, and other graphic arts are all discussed as well, and the sections on films and television programs, as well as bibliographies of books and recordings, will guide your further research.

390 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 1, 2008

About the author

Robert Blumenfeld works as an actor, dialect coach, and writer. He has recorded more than 325 books and acted in regional and New York theater. Blumenfeld is the author of Accents, Acting with the Voice, Tools and Techniques for Character Interpretation, Using the Stanislavsky System, Blumenfelds Dictionary of Acting and Show Business, and Blumenfelds Dictionary of Musical Theaterall published by Limelight Editions. He lives in New York City. "

Reviews

[Isabel · Rating 4 out of 5]

No es el mejor libro sobre Stanislavsky, pero es muy práctico y claro. Pone ejemplos muy interesantes.

[Jaclyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

perfect book for aspiring actors, writers..

[Brian · Rating 2 out of 5]

It felt more historical than practical for an actor.